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Every day, most of us rely on a hot shower or bath as an everyday luxury. Thus, it is imperative to have a working water heater for the sake of comfort and convenience. Nevertheless, water heaters usually function silently but their servicing can be ignored easily. Regular inspections help avoid these surprises and ensure that the heater works properly throughout the year. Here are five things you should check on your water heater each year.
The age and condition of your water heater are good indicators of how the system would perform and any potential replacement that may be required. An excellent quality water heater can go well for years if cared for appropriately. However, its efficiency would gradually deteriorate with time for a unit that is either older or not appropriately maintained.
First, to check how old your water heater is, the manufacturer’s label is commonly on the side of the tank. The serial number carries the most information and can be decoded for the production date. If your water heater is nearing or has already reached its expected lifespan, consider having a professional inspection to determine if water heater replacement is needed. While routine maintenance can extend the life of your unit, if your water heater is already old or failing, it may require more frequent repairs or replacements.
One of the major concerns with your water heater is leaks. Leaks can range from minor drips to more serious ones that might lead to flooding. Periodic monitoring of the connections and the tank itself will help show potential problems before they get severe.
Check for any signs of leakage around the inlet and outlet valves, water heater temperature and pressure relief valve, and any other connection. If you find a loose connection, then call a professional plumber if a leak won’t stop. Leaks could emanate from faulty valves, worn-out gaskets, or the tank’s deterioration. Water Leaks need to be addressed promptly to avoid water damage and costly repairs.
Checking the temperature settings on your water heater involves safety and efficiency issues. The proper setting for most households is about 120°F, or 49°C. This temperature will cover your needs while decreasing the chances of scalding and wasting energy.
To check the water temperature, if it’s a storage-style heater, run the water heater for an hour without drawing any hot water from it. Then, take the temperature of the faucet closest to it using a cooking or candy thermometer. If the temperature is quite a bit off from your thermostat setting, you may need to adjust the thermostat or call a professional for assistance.
The anode rod is designed to be the sacrificial piece in the system to prevent rust and corrosion inside the water heater tank. Most are made from magnesium or aluminum, which attract the corrosive elements of water to itself as it sacrifices for the tank’s protection.
Check the anode rod annually to ensure it isn’t too corroded or caked with sediment. If more than 6 inches of the steel core is showing or the rod is less than ½ inch thick, it’s time to replace it. A rod covered in calcium build-up or sediment will also need a replacement to continue serving its purpose in the tank.
This is a common water heater problem of sediment building up, mainly in the areas where hard water can be found. Over time, minerals can settle down at the bottom of the tank, reducing the efficiency of heating elements, thus probably leading to overheating or even damage.
You will need to flush the tank yearly to prevent sediment buildup. Flushing out that sediment while draining the tank lets you keep your water heater running efficiently. Your actual process will depend on your model, so consult a professional or follow the manufacturer’s instructions if you need clarification.
Having your water heater checked at least once a year is a good idea. Regular check-ups can prevent problems and give your unit a longer life.
Watch for strange noises, discolored water, leaks, erratic water temperature, and an age over ten years. If you are experiencing these problems, you may want to call a professional.
You can prevent the buildup of sediment by periodically flushing the tank. If the water is hard in your city or town, you can reduce sedimentation by installing a water softener.
Loosen all loose connections, then check the valves for leakage. If leakage is sustained or at a higher level, you must call a professional plumber who can identify the source of leakage and make necessary repairs for you.
Yes, you can set the temperature of the water heater. The recommended temperature in your water heater is 120°F, or 49°C. This will provide maximum safety for you and your family from scalding. You should seek consultation if you are unsure about setting the temperature or don’t need one.
Regular maintenance on these five critical areas of the water heater will keep it running smoothly and effectively, serving you well with hot water throughout the year and preventing abrupt failures. For anything you do not need clarification on, or if problems persist, it’s best to consult with Magnificent Plumbing who can give proper advice and repairs.